Propagating Bucephalandra 'Centipede'

How to propagate the narrow-leaved Bucephalandra 'Centipede' by rhizome division and attach this slow-growing creeping epiphyte to wood or rock.

Overview

Bucephalandra is a genus of rheophytic herbs endemic to Borneo, forming dense mats over rocks in streams and rivers. A member of the family Araceae, it grows from a creeping, rooting rhizome with few to many leaves. 'Centipede' is a distinctive cultivar whose elongated narrow leaves sit segment-like along the creeping rhizome, resembling a centipede as it grows out.

It is an epiphyte, attached to wood or rock rather than rooted in substrate. Propagation is achieved by dividing the rhizome — a slow but easy method that suits the plant's creeping habit and gradual growth.

Propagation Method (Rhizome Division)

The plant reproduces through its creeping, rooting rhizome. The easiest way to propagate is to cut the rhizome into two pieces with clean, sharp scissors. Each piece needs to retain several leaves and its own roots to grow on independently.

Step-by-Step

Pick a healthy parent with at least two leaf clumps along the creeping rhizome.
Cut the rhizome into pieces with clean, sharp scissors, leaving leaves and roots on each.
Attach each division to wood or rock with sewing thread or super glue gel, or wedge it into a rock crack.
Keep the rhizome exposed; only the roots should touch the hardscape.
Set the piece under low to moderate light and leave it undisturbed to root in.

Conditions for Healthy Growth

'Centipede' tolerates low to medium lighting; high light mainly drives algae onto its slow-growing narrow leaves. CO2 injection is not necessary but can accelerate growth. Keep it at roughly 21–28°C with a pH around 6–8.

Maintenance

Once attached, the divisions need little upkeep. Avoid covering the rhizome with adhesive, and leave new pieces undisturbed so roots can take hold of the hardscape. Given the slow growth, divide only after a plant has built up several clumps along its rhizome.

Common Challenges

Be patient: with this cultivar's slow creeping growth, the segmented leaf line and recovery after division can take weeks to months to fill back in.